The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Galatians

New Testament Teacher Resource Manual, (2002), 193–97

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Author:Paul Author and Audience:Galatians was written by the Apostle Paul and addressed to “the churches of Galatia” (Galatians 1:2). It is unclear whether Paul was addressing the Saints in the southern region or the northern region of Galatia. Paul had baptized and organized the southern Saints during his first missionary journey and the northern Saints during his second missionary journey (see Bible map 13).

Historical Background:If Paul wrote the book of Galatians to the southern Saints, he may have written it as early as A.D. 48. However, similarities between the organization and style of this book and the book of Romans favor the conclusion that it was written during his third missionary journey, around A.D. 57.

Theme:Paul was alarmed when he learned that false teachings were creeping into the lives of his Galatian converts. Many had rejected the teachings of the Atonement and reverted to following the law of Moses. Paul wrote to urge the Saints to return to the higher law of the gospel. He taught that works alone are not sufficient for salvation, but that we must rely on our Savior Jesus Christ.